The Logical Framework and Practical Approach for Establishing AIGC Corpus Traceability Obligation

Generative artificial intelligence technology has empowered the development of new artificial intelligence generated content (AIGC) business models, revolutionized content production methods, and simultaneously given rise to two major challenges: Determining the copyrightability of AIGC works and identifying copyright infringement in AIGC contexts. Advancements in blockchain traceability and digital watermarking technologies have created opportunities for corpus traceability in AIGC technology and content governance. Balancing copyright protection with industrial development, and aligning with the public policy goal of "adapting intellectual property law to new technologies and business models," it is necessary to impose a legal obligation on AIGC service providers to ensure corpus traceability. This would enhance its dual efficacy in assisting rights confirmation and addressing infringement. In structuring the legal framework for corpus traceability obligation, its nature should be clarified. An obligation system encompassing responsible parties, scope of application, fulfillment procedures, and corresponding rights should be established. This system must effectively interface with China's existing work identification system and infringement liability regime to align with both the established legal framework and the practical governance needs of the emerging AIGC business model.